AN UNEXPECTED VICTORY!

The Poland Town Meeting, held on April 27 at the Poland Regional High-School, yielded an unexpected victory for the lakes in Poland. A request by the Range Ponds Association for $10,000 for the abatement and prevention of Milfoil for all the lakes in Poland was successfully passed.

John Crouch, Co-president of the Association with Sandra Norton, had requested that members of our Lake Association attend the Town Meeting to help out. His plea for aid was so sincere and well-presented, that after minimal discussion, it was passed almost unanimously.

It must be noted that Variable Milfoil was found in the waters between Middle and Upper Range Ponds last Fall and considerable efforts were taken to remove it. Skin-divers, under the supervision of Scott Williams, carefully picked the young plants. However, once in a lake, it’s nearly impossible to eradicate it. Variable Milfoil is less dangerous than the Eurasian variety, but neither is good for a lake. Both types are transported by boats, motors and bait cans from affected lakes, can spread like thick mats in shallow areas and seriously compromise a lake. It’s not yet been detected in Tripp, but we must be ever alert to the possibility. "Spread the word, not the plant," is the new motto.

We’re indebted to The Range Ponds Association for including us and for their dedication. It’s hoped that the monies will be used for education and for hiring people to check boats at the public landings.